In a setback to wildlife monitoring efforts, two camera traps installed for tiger census operations in the Naravi Reserve Forest area of Belthangady, Karnataka, have been reported stolen. The theft came to light during a routine inspection conducted by forest officials on May 13.
Incident Details
According to a complaint lodged by Ravindra K, a 46-year-old deputy range forest officer and enumerator with the wildlife division in Belthangady, the camera traps were installed on May 1 near Pela in Savanalu village, Belthangady taluk, as part of the ongoing tiger census exercise. The devices were strategically placed to capture images of tigers and other wildlife for population estimation and monitoring.
On May 13, when Ravindra K, along with other forest officials and staff, visited the site for a routine inspection, they discovered that two cameras were missing. The estimated value of the stolen equipment is Rs 48,000. The loss not only represents a financial setback but also disrupts the census data collection process, potentially affecting the accuracy of tiger population estimates in the region.
Legal Action
A case has been registered at the Belthangady police station under Section 303(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which pertains to theft. Forest officials have launched an investigation to identify and apprehend the culprits. The theft of camera traps is a serious offense as it hampers conservation efforts and undermines scientific research.
Wildlife experts have expressed concern over such incidents, emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures in sensitive forest areas. Camera traps are critical tools for monitoring elusive species like tigers, and their theft can set back conservation initiatives significantly. The forest department is likely to review its protocols to prevent future occurrences.
